Lawmakers OK Inquiry into House Sex Scandal and Cover-Up

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The Michigan House of Representatives on Wednesday approved an inquiry into the sex scandal and cover-up of state Reps. Todd Courser and Cindy Gamrat that could result in expulsion of the first-term legislators.

Other options before the Select Committee include censure, a reprimand or no action at all, according to a Detroit Free Press report. Members haven’t yet been appointed to the committee, which will examine the Gamrat and Courser’s qualifications and determine their fitness to continue serving.

The resolution approving the Select Committee will “keep all of our options open,” Speaker of the House Kevin Cotter, R-Mt. Pleasant. “I’m not making any decisions now and still want to wait until the investigation unfolds.”

The extramarital affair and coverup were exposed by The Detroit News 10 days ago. Gamrat has denied that she was part of a bizarre misinformation campaign in which sexually explicit emails accusing Courser – a staunch gay marriage opponent – of having sex with a male prostitute were sent to Republicans and reporters in May.

Catch Up on This Story:

• State Rep Wanted to Cover Up Affair With Fake Gay Sex Scandal
• Rep. Courser’s Brother Posts Alleged Blackmail Texts Online
• Not My Finest Moment’ – State Rep Apologizes for Fake Sex Scandal Scheme
• Legislators Not Quitting, Ex-Aide Shares Steamy Details of Affair

Both lawmakers have apologized for their conduct, but neither plans to resign.

House Minority Leader Tim Greimel, D-Auburn Hills, said the special inquiry is needed to help lawmakers understand “exactly what occurred and to make sure that if the allegations are true that those responsible are held accountable.”

“But it’s still important for law enforcement agencies to do their investigations,” he said. “There are criminal allegations involved here.”

Cotter will appoint four and Greimel will name two members to the Select Committee, which will have the power to subpoena witnesses and examine books, records and tapes of anyone affiliated with their offices.

Neither Courser nor Gamrat spoke with reporters about the inquiry.